Chronic Bronchitis

Definition

Chronic bronchitis is a long-term disease of the lungs. It is a problem with the airways of the lungs. Injury or irritation causes these airways to swell and develop extra mucus. This makes it difficult to move air in and out of the lungs. It will make breathing difficult.

Causes

Chronic bronchitis is caused by damage to the airways. The damage is caused by:

Cigarette smoking

Inhaling toxins or other irritants

Genetic predisposition can make a person's lungs more susceptible to damage from smoke or pollutants—one example of a genetic disorder is alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency

Risk Factors

Cigarette smoking is the greatest risk factor for developing chronic bronchitis. The number of cigarettes smoked and years as a smoke increase the risk of disease. Frequent and long-term smoking also increases the chance of severe chronic bronchitis.

Chronic bronchitis is more common in people over 40 years old. Other factors that may increase the chance of chronic bronchitis include:

Long-term exposure to chemicals, dust, and other substances that have been inhaled

Symptoms

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, especially after mild activity or exercise

Recurring respiratory infections that cause symptoms to worsen

Wheezing when breathing

Fatigue

Diagnosis

To diagnose chronic bronchitis, symptoms of productive cough must have been present for 3 or more months in at least 2 consecutive years, and not have been caused by another condition. The doctor will ask about symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Tests may include the following:

Treatment

. There is no cure for chronic bronchitis. There are treatments that can reduce symptoms and improve lung function. The best way to reduce symptoms is to stop smoking.

Treatment options may include one or more of the following:

Medication

Medications may include bronchodilators or steroids. They may help manage chronic bronchitis by:

Opening the airways

Relaxing the breathing passages

Decreasing inflammation

Some medication may be taken as pills or liquids. Others are inhaled medication that is delivered directly to the lungs.

Antibiotics are rarely prescribed to treat chronic bronchitis. They may be needed to treat a lung infection that has developed because of the chronic bronchitis.

Vaccines

Lung infections like pneumonia or other infections like the flu can make symptoms worse. Get vaccinated against
pneumonia
and the
flu. The flu vaccine may also reduce flare ups.

Oxygen

Oxygen therapy may be helpful if blood oxygen levels too low. It can relieve breathing problems and improve energy. Oxygen may only be needed for specific activities or it may be given throughout the day.

Exercise

Special exercises can strengthen chest muscles. This can make it easier to breathe.

Regular physical activity can reduce the workload on the lungs by building endurance. Physical activity is also associated with improved quality of life.
Follow the doctor's recommendations for activity levels and restrictions.

Breathing and Coughing Techniques

Special methods of breathing can help bring more air into the lungs. They can also help force trapped air out of the lungs. Effective coughing techniques can also help clear mucus from the lungs. Ask the doctor if these techniques will be helpful. Some examples include:

Pursed lip breathing

Controlled coughing technique

Lifestyle Changes

Symptoms can be managed by:

Pacing activities.

Learning relaxation techniques and other methods to manage stress.

Seeking emotional support from professionals, family, and friends.
Anxiety
can increase the rate of respiration, making breathing more strenuous.

Prevention

To help reduce the chance of chronic bronchitis:

Quit smoking. The doctor can help with finding a successful program.

Avoid exposure to second-hand smoke.

Avoid exposure to air pollution or irritants.

Wear protective gear if exposed to irritants or toxins at work.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Chronic bronchitis. American Academy of Family Physicians Family Doctor website. Available at:
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/chronic-bronchitis.html.
Updated February 2014. Accessed March 8, 2016.

What you can do about a lung disease called COPD. Global nitiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease website. Available at:
http://www.goldcopd.org/uploads/users/files/GOLD%5FPatient%5FRevJan10.pdf. Accessed March 8, 2016.